Tutorials

Line a baking sheet with parchment. Cut acetate to desired size (2″x6″ in photo). Melt chocolate in double boiler or microwave. Using a small offset spatula, spread chocolate over acetate strip in an even layer. Form into cylinder and stand on end. Use tape to secure it closed. Add a spoonful of chocolate inside cylinder and smooth to create a bottom. Leave it to dry or put in refrigerator to harden. Carefully remove tape and acetate. Fill with a piece of cake and top with mousse or pudding. Cups can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

How to Make Gumpaste

4 large egg whites
2 lb. powdered sugar
12 tsp. tylose
shortening

In a heavy duty mixer, mix egg whites on high speed for 10 seconds. Set aside 1 cup of the powdered sugar. Turn the mixer to the lowest speed and slowly add remaining sugar. Turn up speed to setting 3 or 4 for about 2 minutes. Mixture should look shiny like meringue. Turn the mixer to slow setting and sprinkle in the tylose. Next, turn the speed up to the high setting for a few seconds. (This will thicken the mixture). Scrape the mixture out of the bowl onto a work surface that has been sprinkled with some of the reserved powdered sugar. Place shortening on hands and knead the paste, adding powdered sugar to form a soft but not sticky dough. Place the paste in a plastic bag, then a second bag and seal well. Place in the refrigerator for 24 hours before use to mature the paste. Before using, allow paste to come to room temperature. Take a small amount of shortening on the tip of your finger and knead this into the paste. The paste is now ready to use. Store gumpaste in the refrigerator when not using. It will keep approximately 6 months. You can freeze the paste for up to 3 years. If you will be freezing a batch, allow it to mature for 24 hours in the refrigerator before placing into the freezer. Makes 2 pounds.

Homemade Dragees

Since dragees are no longer sold in California, I created these out of pure frustration. Using Silver Highlighter Metallic Dust (non-toxic), mix with vodka or extract to make a liquid paint. Stir in light colored sugar pearls and coat evenly. Spoon onto a paper towel to dry. May take a few days to dry completely.